The coronavirus outbreak has suspended many of the zero waste programs New Yorkers have come to rely on, including GrowNYC’s zero waste programs, DSNY’s curbside compost program, and the citywide network of food scrap drop-off sites. 

While GrowNYC’s zero waste services are not currently operational, we know our community continues to care about the long-term sustainability of our city and looks to us for information.  The resources and updates below are subject to change--please check host information before you go and be patient as the city works through this public health crisis.  Remember, it's great to recycle and rot, but it's best to reduce and reuse to prevent waste!

Household Recyclables

• NYC’s curbside recycling program is still in effect. Thank a sanitation worker, and make sure to check recycling rules and rinse containers! 

Food Waste

• Read our blog post: Keeping Up Composting During COVID-19.
• Check our Compost Program page for updates as GrowNYC food scrap drop-off sites begin to re-open.
• Reduce food waste by learning about expiration dates, food preservation, using up leftovers, and other tips from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation.
• Curbside Composting is suspended until at least July 2021. 
• Some grassroots organizations, microhaulers, and commercial vendors are providing food scrap drop-off and residential pickup services. See @ahealhyblueprint's crowd-sourced NYC Food Scrap Drop-off During COVID-19 List for locations and residential pick-up services currently accepting scraps.

Clothing + Textiles

• GrowNYC’s clothing collections are cancelled until further notice and the city’s refashionNYC program is suspended.
• Our partners at Wearable Collections are continuing to serve NYC through their Drop Spot in Carroll Gardens and contactless home pickups for large quantities (check minimum quantities and fill out the request form). 

Electronics

• The LES Ecology Center’s E-waste Warehouse is no longer accepting donations, and collection events are paused.
• The city’s ecycleNYC program, SAFE Collection Events, and Special Waste Drop-Off Sites are suspended. 
• As NYC goes back to business, other e-waste donation and recycling options may become available. 

Reusable Items

• Avoid overburdening thrift stores and charities during this crisis - check before you donate.
• Big Reuse accepts home goods, clothing, books, furniture and more. 
• GrowNYC's Stop ‘N’ Swap® events are cancelled until further notice.